Satsangs

Satsang is a compound Sanskrit word that means “keeping the company of the Self.” The Self, Awareness, is the true nature of everyone and one keeps company with it by continually meditating on it in many ways. One of the most effective methods involves discussing non-dual teachings with someone who has realized his or her identity as the Self, to get clarity with reference to Self inquiry. The satsangs posted here are the questions of many people around the world who are interested in enlightenment and find that Vedanta is their preferred means of Self knowledge. Since I am a teacher of Vedanta, a time tested means of self inquiry, I am qualified to reply to these questions.~James Swartz

ShiningWorld Reader

1.
In the beginning there was neither Non-being nor Being, neither
atmosphere nor sky beyond. What enveloped all things? Where were
they, in whose care? What was the ocean, the unfathomable depth?

2.
At that time there was neither mortal nor immortal, neither night nor
day. That being, the only one, breathed without air in freedom.
Beyond it nothing existed.

3.
Darkness was there and in the beginning this world was an ocean
without lights. But the pregnant germ of consciousness enveloped by
the husk of ignorance was born by the strength of penance.

4.
And love, the first-born, went forth as the primodial seed of mind.
Thus wise men meditating found the link of Non-being and Being in
the Heart.

5.
They threw their plumbline across the universe. What was then below
and what above? There were seedbearers; there was mighty striving;
freedom beneath, exertion above.

6.
But who knows and who can tell from whence the creation came? The
gods came afterwards.

7.
He from whom this creation proceeded, whether He created it or not,
He whose eye watches it in the highest heaven, perhaps He knows it…
or perhaps He knows it not.

~ From
the Rig
Veda

Contacting Shining World

For years I have happily and diligently responded to communications on the topic of Self realization. Since the publication of my book, “How to Attain Enlightenment”— currently in its third printing —and the success of this website, the volume of emails has increased considerably. Unfortunately, owing to a busy schedule of teaching and writing, I am no longer able to answer all the emails I receive in a timely fashion. However, my wife, who is also a teacher, and several well-qualified teachers we have endorsed are available to answer emails on my behalf. I encourage you to send them your questions.
— James SwartzContact Us